Twin Stars Commit to North Dakota
Twin forwards Liam and Markus Ruck, the two most prolific scorers in the Western Hockey League this season, have officially pledged to join the University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks for the 2027‑28 campaign, a move that underscores the program’s growing allure on the international stage.
Having dominated the WHL with 108 and 104 points respectively, the brothers bring a rare blend of skill and hockey IQ that has caught the eye of scouts across North America. Liam, a lethal shooter who netted 45 goals this year, and Markus, a creative playmaker who dished out 87 assists, are projected as top selections in the 2026 NHL Draft.
WHL Dominance and Draft Outlook
Their decision to forgo other suitors such as Michigan State, Western Michigan, Quinnipiac and the University of Maine was revealed during a recruiting weekend that also highlighted UND’s recent surge in player development. The Fighting Hawks, who have not seen a pair of brothers commit since the 2016‑17 season, hope the twins will help restore the program to national prominence.
A Strategic Choice
Coach Brad Berry emphasized that the twins’ intelligence and work ethic fit perfectly with the team’s philosophy, noting that their ability to read the game and make split‑second decisions will translate well to the collegiate pace. The brothers, who spent an additional year with the Medicine Hat Tigers to refine their craft, will arrive in Grand Forks with a championship pedigree after helping their club capture the WHL title and reach the Memorial Cup final.
Beyond the personal milestone, the Ruck twins’ arrival signals a broader trend of Canadian junior talent opting for the NCAA route, a shift that could reshape the talent pipeline feeding into the NHL. Their commitment not only bolsters UND’s recruiting class but also adds a compelling narrative to a season that fans will watch closely.